Unveiling the Ultimate October Getaways
As the autumnal breeze sweeps in, discerning travelers seek the perfect October retreats to revel in the changing landscapes and escape the summer throngs. In our curated guide to the Best Holiday Destinations for October, we present a comprehensive list that goes beyond the obvious, spanning from the cobbled streets of Bruges to the exotic shores of Seychelles. Let’s explore why these destinations stand out and why October is the ideal time to visit.
1. Bruges, Belgium: A Tranquil City Break
Why go in October? For a crowd-free city break.
In the heart of autumn, Bruges transforms into a serene haven. The cobbled streets, remnants of its medieval golden age, welcome fewer tourists after the summer and before the Christmas market rush. A canal-boat trip takes on a new charm, and art enthusiasts can explore galleries like the Groeninge museum without the usual footfall. For an immersive experience, stay at Sablon Hotel, a contemporary gem within a 16th-century townhouse.
2. Canary Islands, Spain: Warm Seas Await
Why go in October? For warm seas.
October marks the perfect fusion of warm seas and balmy weather in the Canary Islands. The sea temperatures peak, offering an ideal beach getaway with fewer visitors compared to the summer peak. Gran Canaria, with its diverse microclimates, hosts the Seaside Palm Beach resort. Boasting 1970s retro design, family activities, and proximity to Maspalomas beach, it’s an oasis for October sun-seekers.
3. The Berkshires, Massachusetts: Nature’s Canvas in October
Why go in October? For a dash of autumn color.
New England’s autumnal charm finds its zenith in the Berkshires during early to mid-October. The rolling hills burst into a spectrum of reds and oranges, offering a picturesque backdrop for self-serve apple orchards and farm-to-table dining. Amid this kaleidoscope of colors, Tourists, a unique lodging, blends backwoods cabin aesthetics with clean-lined design for an immersive Berkshires experience.
4. Dalmatian Coast, Croatia: Island-Hopping Bliss
Why go in October? For island-hopping without the scrum.
Escape the summer crowds and explore Croatia’s ancient walled towns along the Dalmatian Coast in October. With pleasant temperatures lingering in the high teens, Dubrovnik and nearby islands offer a sunny retreat. Villa Dubrovnik, a five-star haven, provides the classic view of Dubrovnik’s old town across the water, coupled with a secluded seaside perch.
5. Siem Reap, Cambodia: Emerald Landscapes Unveiled
Why go in October? For a landscape at its most exuberant.
As Cambodia bids farewell to the six-month rainy season, October reveals the countryside in its full emerald brilliance. Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor’s temples, becomes a vibrant hub. Stay at Templation, an oasis between central Siem Reap and Angkor Wat, offering suites and villas around a generous pool for an indulgent October retreat.
6. Inari, Finland: Aurora Magic without the Chill
Why go in October? For aurora hunting.
Contrary to popular belief, the best Northern Lights display doesn’t require bone-chilling temperatures. In October, Finnish Lapland offers clear skies with temperatures just above freezing. Wilderness Hotel Inari & Igloos, overlooking Lake Inari, provides cozy accommodations for potential aurora sightings from the comfort of your bed.
7. Vienna, Austria: A Cultural Extravaganza
Why go in October? For coffee-house culture.
Vienna beckons with cultural richness, especially during the Lange Nacht der Museen (Long Night of the Museums) in early October. Explore museums late into the night, with Vienna’s iconic coffee houses ensuring a perfect blend of intellectual stimulation and caffeine. Optimize your Vienna stay at 25hours Hotel beim MuseumsQuartier, just streets away from the museum-rich Ringstrasse.
8. Gauja and Kemeri National Parks, Latvia: Nature’s Playground
Why go in October? For outdoor living.
Latvia, often overlooked for autumn travel, reaches its peak of fall colors in mid-October. Gauja National Park offers kayak trips along forested riverbanks, while Kemeri National Park boasts boardwalks and intriguing “bog-shoeing.” Experience aristocratic grandeur at Birinu Pils, a castle hotel near the western end of Gauja National Park.
9. Albuquerque, New Mexico: A Sky Ablaze with Color
Why go in October? For a blast of hot air.
Experience the mesmerizing Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the world’s largest balloon festival, in early October. Over 500 hot-air balloons grace the skies, creating a vivid spectacle. To complement this, explore the state’s art and heritage centers, including Santa Fe and Taos. Stay at Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm for a dreamy 1930s-era ranch experience.
10. Mahé, Seychelles: Off-Grid Solitude
Why go in October? For some off-grid solitude.
Seychelles, with its consistent temperatures, undergoes a change in trade winds in October. Irrespective of the side you stay on, Mahé offers pristine beaches and lush forests. STORY Seychelles, a beach resort in Mahé’s northwest, nestled against Morne Seychellois National Park, provides an elegant retreat for an off-grid October getaway.
11. Somerset and Devon, England: A Celestial Affair
Why go in October? For dark-sky fun.
Discover the celestial wonders during the Exmoor Dark Skies Festival in Somerset’s Exmoor National Park. Embrace astronomy introductions, night walks, and farm feasts against the backdrop of changed landscapes. Dunkery Beacon Country House, an elegant eight-room retreat, offers panoramic views over the rolling Exmoor landscape.
12. Petra, Jordan: Timeless Desert Grandeur
Why go in October? For the perfect conditions.
October provides an ideal climate to explore Petra, Jordan. The desert city, carved by the Nabateans, welcomes visitors with milder temperatures, avoiding the extremes of summer heat or winter chills. Petra Guest House Hotel, with its unique character and proximity to the Siq canyon, ensures an immersive Petra experience.
13. Rajasthan, India: Post-Monsoon Splendor
Why go in October? For post-monsoon beauty.
As the southwest monsoon retreats, Rajasthan reveals its post-monsoon beauty. October, adorned with Diwali celebrations and the Pushkar Camel Fair, presents a colorful spectacle. In Jaipur, the Royal Heritage Haveli, set in an 18th-century former hunting lodge, provides an ornate stay amid the festival fervor.
14. Alentejo, Portugal: Rustic Beauty Unveiled
Why go in October? For traditional ways of life.
Experience the rustic allure of southern Portugal in Alentejo as temperatures become more forgiving in autumn. The cork oaks, stripped of their bark, stand as living sculptures. Sao Lourenco do Barrocal, a family estate turned spa-equipped hotel, offers an authentic taste of Alentejo with historic quintas and a myriad of activities.
15. Hervey Bay, Australia: Whales and Wilderness
Why go in October? For whale-watching without the crowds.
Hervey Bay transforms into a whale nursery between July and November. October, the tail end of the whale-watching season, provides a more budget-friendly visit from the UK. Ramada by Wyndham Hervey Bay, with resort facilities and self-catering apartments, ensures a comfortable stay amidst the wild adventures on nearby K’gari.
